Black cloth dolls started appearing in flea markets and antique shops in
the 1960s. At the time they represented an anomaly in our cultural
awareness as a nation, since black dolls of any kind were very much the
exception rather than the rule. The black cloth dolls in the Hatch
collection reflect a by gone period of American craftsmanship, which
included the sewing skills of women, and particularly those of African
American women.

Pat Hatch started collecting black cloth dolls thirty-five years ago,
and now has well over a hundred dolls. Most of the dolls were made
between 1870 and 1920. They are extraordinary, all handmade and
one-of-a-kind, with an expressiveness that takes one by surprise, never
stylized in any way.

This site seeks to correct this anomaly with photos and details about
the dolls, in addition to news and information about past and upcoming
exhibits. We also have catalogues, cards, and posters available in our
store.